[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ fullwidth=”on” module_id=”welcome” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_fullwidth_image src=”https:\/\/meditationinflorida.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/7CentersFL25-1500×500-v2.jpg” alt=”Image of a sunset at the beach, with the title: Benefiting Others by Becoming Your Best Self. Annual Peaceful Getaway Retreat. Labor Day Weekend, from August 29 to September 1, 2025. At the Kadampa Temple for World Peace, in Sarasota.” title_text=”7CentersFL25-1500×500-v1-1″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_fullwidth_image][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ custom_margin=”0px||||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” animation_style=”slide” animation_direction=”bottom” animation_intensity_slide=”3%” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text module_id=”Welcome” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
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Join us in beautiful Sarasota for a special weekend retreat based on Guide to the Bodhisattva\u2019s Way of Life<\/em> by the great master Shantideva. This timeless text is a step-by-step guide to living with compassion, wisdom, and strength in our modern world.<\/p>\n Throughout the weekend, Resident Teachers from the seven Kadampa centers in Florida will share Buddha\u2019s teachings and guide meditations that awaken our inner potential and show how becoming our best self is the most powerful way to benefit the people around us.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_button button_url=”https:\/\/www.tickettailor.com\/events\/kadampameditationcenterflorida\/1716839″ url_new_window=”on” button_text=”CLICK HERE TO REGISTER” button_alignment=”center” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_button=”on” button_text_size=”37px” button_bg_color=”#0DA0C5″ button_border_radius=”7px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_button][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text module_id=”teachings” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”40px||||false|false” border_width_top=”1px” border_color_top=”#D6D6D6″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”2_5,3_5″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”|||40px|false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”2_5″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/meditationinflorida.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Book-Guide-to-the-bodhisattva_s-way-of-life_3D-reflect_2018-1.jpg” alt=”Book: Guide to the Boddhisattva’s Way of Life, by Shantideva” title_text=”Book-Guide-to-the-bodhisattva_s-way-of-life_3D-reflect_2018″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” animation_style=”fade” animation_direction=”left” animation_duration=”600ms” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_5″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”rgba(210,228,249,0.37)” custom_padding=”40px|40px|40px|40px|false|false” animation_style=”fade” animation_direction=”left” border_radii=”on|15px|15px|15px|15px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n So much joy and confidence comes from our meditation practice when we’re motivated to become our best selves for the benefit of others.<\/span><\/p>\n Our theme this year, “Benefiting Others by Becoming Your Best Self”<\/strong>, explores the transformative power of the Six Perfections: giving, moral discipline, patience, effort, concentration, and wisdom. These profound practices lie at the heart of the Bodhisattva path and offer a blueprint for living a deeply meaningful life.<\/p>\n The teachings are based on Guide to the Bodhisattva\u2019s Way of Life<\/strong><\/em>\u00a0by the great master Shantideva. This timeless text provides a step-by-step guide to living with compassion, wisdom, and strength in our modern world.<\/p>\n A bodhisattva<\/strong> is someone motivated by universal compassion to benefit all living beings. They transform their daily lives into actions that help others, ultimately aiming for world peace and enlightenment for all. What could be a more meaningful purpose?<\/p>\n Whether you’re new to Buddhism or a long-time practitioner, the retreat offers a joyful opportunity to deepen your spiritual practice, connect with like-minded individuals, and return home inspired and empowered.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text module_id=”teachers” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”40px||||false|false” border_color_all=”#D6D6D6″ border_width_top=”1px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_4,3_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”|||40px|false|false” animation_style=”fade” animation_speed_curve=”ease-out” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/meditationinflorida.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/2025-teachers-bio-genGomlam.jpg” alt=”Gen Gomlam” title_text=”2025-teachers-bio-genGomlam” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” border_radii=”on|8px|8px|8px|8px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Gen Gomlam is the Resident Teacher of Kadampa Meditation Center Florida. <\/span><\/p>\n She has been studying, practicing and teaching Kadam Dharma for many years. Gen Gomlam\u2019s heartfelt and practical teachings are presented with warmth and humor, making them accessible to everyone. Through her loving kindness, sincere concern for others, and deep understanding of Buddha\u2019s teachings, Gen Gomlam provides an inspiring example of someone who has taken Buddha\u2019s teachings to heart.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_4,3_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”|||40px|false|false” animation_style=”fade” animation_speed_curve=”ease-out” border_color_top=”#D6D6D6″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/meditationinflorida.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/2025-teachers-bio-genNamdrol.jpg” alt=”Gen Namdrol” title_text=”2025-teachers-bio-genNamdrol” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” border_radii=”on|8px|8px|8px|8px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Gen Namdrol is the Resident Teacher of Samudrabadra Kadampa Buddhist Center.<\/p>\n She has been studying, practicing, and teaching Kadampa Buddhism for many years under Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche, the founder of the New Kadampa Tradition.<\/p>\n Gen Namdrol\u2019s heartfelt and practical teachings are presented with warmth, clarity and humor making them accessible to everyone.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_4,3_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”|||40px|false|false” animation_style=”fade” animation_speed_curve=”ease-out” border_color_top=”#D6D6D6″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/meditationinflorida.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/2025-teachers-bio-sarahFrew.jpg” alt=”Sarah Frew” title_text=”2025-teachers-bio-sarahFrew” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” border_radii=”on|8px|8px|8px|8px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Sarah Frew, formerly the Resident Teacher at Kadampa Meditation Center Philadelphia, became the Resident Teacher of Kadampa Meditation Center Tampa Bay in January of 2025. She is a long-time student and practitioner of Kadampa Buddhism under the guidance of Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche and has engaged in extensive Dharma study and retreat. Sarah participated in the Intensive Teacher Training Program at Manjushri Kadampa Meditation Centre, a special course designed by Venerable Geshe-la to provide six months of intensive training for those wishing to become qualified Resident Teachers at Kadampa Buddhist Centers around the world. Sarah has served in many roles in our Tradition in addition to being a Resident Teacher, including being a Manager and Festival Organizer. Through her joyful and engaging manner, she shares Buddha\u2019s teachings in a kind-hearted and warm way that makes them accessible to everyone.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_4,3_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”|||40px|false|false” animation_style=”fade” animation_speed_curve=”ease-out” border_color_top=”#D6D6D6″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/meditationinflorida.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/2025-teachers-bio-genTashi.jpg” alt=”Gen Tashi” title_text=”2025-teachers-bio-genTashi” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” border_radii=”on|8px|8px|8px|8px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Gen Kelsang Tashi is the Resident Teacher of Kadampa Meditation Center Miami. He has been practicing and teaching meditation in the Kadampa tradition for over 15 years. His gentle approach to meditation emphasizes the importance of keeping a happy and positive mind. He is appreciated for his clear, light-hearted and practical presentation of Buddhist teachings.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_4,3_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”|||40px|false|false” animation_style=”fade” animation_speed_curve=”ease-out” border_color_top=”#D6D6D6″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/meditationinflorida.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/2025-teachers-bio-genJindak.jpg” alt=”Gen Jindak” title_text=”2025-teachers-bio-genJindak” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” border_radii=”on|8px|8px|8px|8px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Gen Kelsang Jindak is the Resident Teacher of Kadampa Meditation Center Fort Lauderdale. She has been a disciple of Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche for over 25 years. Ordained as a Buddhist nun in 2003, she was given the name Kelsang Jindak, which means \u201cFortunate Benefactor\u201d. She has many years of experience teaching and volunteering at Kadampa Centers around the U.S. Gen Jindak has a clear, joyful teaching style and presents Kadampa Buddhism practically, for both beginners and experienced meditators alike.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_4,3_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”|||40px|false|false” animation_style=”fade” animation_speed_curve=”ease-out” border_color_top=”#D6D6D6″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/meditationinflorida.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/2025-teachers-bio-kadamRicc.jpg” alt=”Kadam Ricc” title_text=”2025-teachers-bio-kadamRicc” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” border_radii=”on|8px|8px|8px|8px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Kadam Ricc Bishop is the Resident Teacher at Vajrapani Kadampa Buddhist Center, in Orlando.<\/p>\n Kadam Ricc has been a disciple of Geshe Kelsang Gyatso for over 20 years. Venerable Geshe Kelsang assigned Ricc as a Resident Teacher in 2006 and he was granted the senior title of \u2018Kadam\u201d in 2010. Kadam Ricc has studied, practiced and taught others Kadampa Dharma for many years and takes delight in offering Buddha\u2019s teaching as practical advice for a happy and meaningful life.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_4,3_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”|||40px|false|false” animation_style=”fade” animation_speed_curve=”ease-out” border_color_top=”#D6D6D6″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/meditationinflorida.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/2025-teachers-bio-kadamCarol.jpg” alt=”Kadam Carol” title_text=”2025-teachers-bio-kadamCarol” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” border_radii=”on|8px|8px|8px|8px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Kadam Carol Lutker is the Resident Teacher of Maitreya Kadampa Buddhist Center, in Jacksonville. Kadam Carol is a longtime student of Geshe Kelsang Gyatso, and has been teaching Kadampa Buddhism in Long Island NY and Florida since 2001. She serves as an example of how to practice Dharma within the context of family and community, is married and has three grown children. As a teacher, Carol is especially appreciated for her warm, clear and practical instruction.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”||||false|false” animation_style=”slide” animation_direction=”bottom” animation_intensity_slide=”1%” border_color_top=”#D6D6D6″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text module_id=”schedule” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”40px||||false|false” border_width_top=”1px” border_color_top=”#D6D6D6″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_5,2_5″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” animation_style=”slide” animation_direction=”bottom” animation_intensity_slide=”1%” border_color_top=”#D6D6D6″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_5″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_enable_image=”off” background_size=”contain” background_position=”top_right” custom_padding=”|||40px|false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\nAbout the Teachings<\/h1>\n
About the Teachers<\/h1>\n
Gen Kelsang Gomlam<\/h3>\n
Gen Kelsang Namdrol<\/h3>\n
Sarah Frew<\/h3>\n
Gen Kelsang Tashi<\/h3>\n
Gen Kelsang Jindak<\/h3>\n
Kadam Ricc Bishop<\/h3>\n
Kadam Carol Lutker<\/h3>\n
Event Schedule<\/h1>\n